TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[neverdidiever]

does anyone know what time the application closes tomorrow for Watson Farley?

 

[Willgetatc]

does anyone know what time the application closes tomorrow for Watson Farley?

From experience with Fried Frank yesterday, I’d say to take it as 11:59am close at most if they don’t specify time

 

[givemeaTCalreadyT^T]

Hi, would appreciate any insight on Baker’s VI for those who may have done it earlier. Can exchange for insights on Links AC and FF VI. Thanks!

 

[TheHamlet4]

does anyone know what time the application closes tomorrow for Watson Farley?

I reckon it will close at 23.59 on Sunday based on my prior experience with the application platform.

 

[ababababba]

how long did it take for those who received the written application questions after VI for reed smith?

 

[M_]

How long after applying to Reed Smith did you hear back to do the legal test and interview?

 

[Maddy]

Does anyone know how many seconds we get to prepare and how many seconds to speak for Baker McKenzie’s video interview? Any insights would be really helpful.

 

[TheHamlet4]

On WFW application, it wants me to list the law-related events I've partaken in excluding recruitment presentations -- does this mean I cannot list webinars I have attended?

 

[lucky2]

Hi, does anyone have any insights on Howard Kennedy VI? I can share insights on Reed Smith VI and Macfarlanes second stage VI

 

[Garak]

Hey!

I think this is one of those questions where they are mainly testing whether your reasoning is thoughtful and tailored, rather than whether you have a "perfect" reason for London specifically.

I would focus less on generic "London is exciting/fast-paced" points and more on what the London office means in the context of the firm itself. For example, you could mention that:

• The London office gives exposure to a broader range of national clients and large-scale matters
• Many of the firm's key sectors have strong links to London-based institutions
• You are interested in being at the centre of client interaction and collaboration across offices
• London aligns with your long-term career ambitions and where you see yourself building your professional network

I would also make sure to avoid sounding as though the regional offices are "lesser" options! Bevan Brittan is really strong outside of London, so it is better to frame it as why London suits you personally and professionally, rather than why the other offices do not.

I hope that assists!

thank you, Abbie!

 

[HMajesty]

How much prep time and recording time do we get for Baker VI?

 

[TheHamlet4]

Hey, how long did it take you to hear from WFW after initial application

 

[randomrhino]

Just did the Reed Smith SJT and didn't do well on grit and creative force (a 1 in creative force???)… But apparently I got a perfect score in digital mindset and a 6 in applied intellect. So sick of these SJTs

 

[HMajesty]

Anyone heard from W&C today?

 

[HMajesty]

Hey guys, I’d like some advice from the forum as I’m trying to decide whether to continue applying to TCs in the next cycle if this one doesn’t work out. Objectively speaking, I feel like I’ll be a lot older than my peers when the TC starts (either 30/31 depending on entry). I’ll also lose out on almost 2 years of work experience in my own country as I’m not from the UK. The process itself has been very disheartening so far, and while I’d really like to get a TC and have been working towards it, I’m not sure I can take another cycle of this. This was my 2nd cycle, and it hasn’t been very kind to me. I realise it’s a subjective decision, but I’d truly appreciate any advice on what I should do. Thank you.

 

[tc_cc]

Does anyone have any insights into the Howard Kennedy VI? Thank you!

 

[privateequitywarrior]

That Bakers VI was unexpected and interesting

 

[Maddy]

That Bakers VI was unexpected and interesting

That Bakers VI was unexpected and interesting

Could you please share how many seconds we get for preparation and for speaking, if possible?

 

[Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner]

4 days left till I get the Ashurst PFO I can’t wait…

 

[Prudentia]

Hey guys, I’d like some advice from the forum as I’m trying to decide whether to continue applying to TCs in the next cycle if this one doesn’t work out. Objectively speaking, I feel like I’ll be a lot older than my peers when the TC starts (either 30/31 depending on entry). I’ll also lose out on almost 2 years of work experience in my own country as I’m not from the UK. The process itself has been very disheartening so far, and while I’d really like to get a TC and have been working towards it, I’m not sure I can take another cycle of this. This was my 2nd cycle, and it hasn’t been very kind to me. I realise it’s a subjective decision, but I’d truly appreciate any advice on what I should do. Thank you.

If a TC is what you want then you have to keep going. It’s not unusual for it to take people multiple cycles before they land one. I’m about the same age as you, and the way I see it is that the time will pass anyway. I would rather be working towards something I want than give up because I think I might be “too old.” How old the rest of your cohort are is irrelevant at the end of the day. Plenty of people have changed careers in their 30s if not later. It’s completely understandable that you’ll feel burnt out, but the only way to secure the TC offer is to keep going. You’ll get there eventually!